What It's Like Being an Identical Twin

I have two sisters, which is nothing out of the ordinary, but one happens to look exactly like me, say for some subtle differences. My identical twin and I are alike in almost every way: we have the same mannerisms, same way of expressing ourselves, and ,often, we think the same exact things. Many people have asked me what it’s like to have an identical twin and I always struggle to answer the question because I have nothing to compare it to; it’s all I’ve ever known. However, I will attempt to explain to you the ins and outs of having an identical twin and what it’s been like growing up with one!

The best thing about being a twin is having been born with a best friend for life. There was no getting to know each other or those awkward moments where you’re still unsure if this person is your friend or not. We just spent every single day together, forming such a strong emotional connection that I don’t think I’d be who I was if it weren’t for her guidance, support, and help in my growth as a young woman. She’s been with me through every bad moment in my life—where I was crying so much it hurt, and for every great experience—where I was crying from laughing so much. I know that I can talk to her about anything because she is me, just slightly different. I always know she will understand my emotions and there’s just such a deep empathetic connection that exists between us. People always ask if she gets hurt, will I feel it? Obviously, it’s impossible for me to feel physical pain when she gets physically hurt, but pain can be deeper and more nuanced than just on the surface. For example, in second grade, I fell off a fence, injuring my neck and back, but I did not cry once. My twin sister, on the other hand, was sobbing, terrified that she was going to lose me. That’s what is really difficult about being a twin: we have such a strong bond that there’s a constant fear of what life would be like without her.

Although being a twin is generally positive, there are definitely some negatives. For example, we cannot go anywhere in public together without at least one person loudly pointing it out and asking intrusive questions about the two of us. I’ve become sick of having to answer unanswerable questions such as, “Which one is the pretty twin?” and “Who’s smarter?” It becomes very frustrating the way people stare at us, even though I know it is out of sheer curiosity. Also, when you look exactly like someone, it is very easy to compare yourself to them, so there is definitely an underlying sense of competition that exists between us.

However, I would not trade this life for anything else. My twin sister is my best friend and my soulmate. I cannot wait to grow old with her and share so many more memories with her. My experience as an identical twin has shaped my life and I’m looking forward to amazing people with our similarities. I can’t blame them for thinking that it is incredible because having an identical twin is easily the best part of my life and I’m so grateful that I was born with a lifelong best friend.

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